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Written by Phil Leake and Munaza Rafiq, a recent investigation revealed the challenges faced by job centre work coaches in finding suitable job opportunities for disabled individuals. According to work coaches interviewed by the BBC, it is especially difficult to secure employment for those with long-term health conditions requiring flexibility or additional support. An analysis of data obtained from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) indicated a decrease in the number of job seekers finding employment each month.
Mark Byers, a work coach with 15 years of experience and a representative for the Public and Commercial Services Union, highlighted the lack of employers capable of providing necessary workplace support for individuals with long-term health conditions. He expressed the strain experienced by work coaches in managing their caseloads, noting a significant increase in workload since he began his role. Byers emphasized the limitations of short appointments that primarily focus on compliance rather than genuine support towards finding employment.
Statistics reveal that the employment rate for disabled individuals has remained stagnant since 2019, with only around 53% of working-age disabled people employed compared to over 82% of non-disabled individuals. The overall into-work rate, representing the proportion of benefits claimants successfully finding work each month, has also declined, standing at 7.6% by April 2025, below pre-pandemic levels. The findings indicate a challenging landscape for both job seekers and work coaches within the current system.
In response to the challenges faced by job centre work coaches, the DWP has implemented changes to address inefficiencies in the system. Despite a previous understaffing concern, the DWP now believes it has more work coaches than required. The government aims to redeploy 1,000 work coaches to provide personalized and intensive support to individuals with health conditions and disabilities, aiming to improve employment rates and reduce the need for health and disability benefits. However, the reality on the ground paints a picture of continued struggles for both job seekers and work coaches in navigating the complexities of finding suitable employment opportunities
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
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